Agenda - Council - 12/13/2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ramsey stated $3.6 million seems like a lot of money because he thought it was supposed to cost $2 million. Councilmember Elvig stated he remembered a cost of $2.2 million. He commented on the need to think forward when considering a building and to anticipate fire station needs in the future. Councilmember Elvig felt there may be fire station drawings already in existence that may be more effective and accommodate the City's needs. He pointed out that architects like to set a budget they can comfortably build to so his concern is that this proposal may be over built. Rather, he suggested considering a building for today's needs that can be added onto without appearing "hodgepodge." Councilmember Backous agreed with those concerns and that building for the future is wise but a phased approach may be better. He noted the issue tonight is a land swap and building design can be discussed later. Mayor Ramsey indicated he was surprised the land was only worth $450,000 after the building was torn down and asked why the City would consider selling if only worth that much. He raised the option of adding onto the old police station to make a new fire station, noting the location lines up and has geothermal. Fire Chief Kapler indicated the geothermal system is not working well. Mayor Ramsey noted the old police station has space for training and beds and an apparatus bay could be added. Councilmember Strommen stated she also has questions on the appraisal. She asked if the appropriate question for the Council to weigh in on tonight is whether to host discussion with the other landowner. She suggested a second topic would be the building plans for the fire station. City Administrator Ulrich stated it appears the Council would like to see information on a "bare bones" fire station that costs $2.5 million with phases for the future. He indicated there are options with the old fire station that staff could bring back at the same time as well as the studies previously conducted. Councilmember Strommen supported an honest needs assessment to assure the Council is making smart decisions. She asked what "bare bones" options would mean and indicated a preference to not set the decision solely on the price. Councilmember Elvig reviewed the property size and past valuations. He stated the 14 acres may have been worth $12-14 million five years ago when considered for multifamily so he does not understand why the valuation today would be as low as $450,000. He asked if the City should wait to sell until the land values come up. Fire Chief Kapler noted that per Council direction, staff was told this property would be used for business, not for multi -family. He agreed that an apartment use would drive up the property value. City Council Work Session / November 7, 2011 Page 9 of 10